Symptoms and causes of COPD   1) Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not simply one disease, but a term used for two diseases that are often co-existing, emphysema and chronic bronchitis. 2) COPD is not curable and usually not reversible. Instead of getting better, it progressively gets worse with time. 3) COPD can also be known as CORD (chronic obstructive respiratory disease), COLD (chronic obstructive lung disease), CAL (chronic airflow limitation), and COAD (chronic obstructive airway disease), though it is most often referred to as COPD. 4) COPD is most often caused by tobacco smoking. It can also be caused by occupational hazards such as welding and coal mining, indoor and outdoor air pollution, and genetics, although 80-90 percent of COPD cases are caused by smoking cigarettes. 5) It is uncommon for COPD to be diagnosed in someone under the age of 40 years old. 6) Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs), such as the Spirometry, can help diagnose the disease by measuring the speed and flow of air during inhalation and exhalation. An X-ray may also be used to show an affected lung or to rule out other diseases. 7) The symptoms of COPD are shortness of breath (dyspnea), cough, fatigue, wheezing, chest tightness, and mucous production. Air pollution and infections can cause sudden sustained worsening of symptoms, called acute exacerbations. 8) In 1990 COPD was the sixth leading cause of death worldwide; it is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. 9) Since there is no cure, management techniques such as drug therapy, vaccinations, and smoking cessation or employed to help those suffering with the disease. Many patients will eventually need a long-term oxygen therapy and/or lung transplant. About the Author: Tim Moore is a former Social Security Disability Examiner in North Carolina, has been interviewed by the NY Times and the LA Times on the disability system, and is an Accredited Disability Representative (ADR) in North Carolina. For assistance on a disability application or Appeal in NC, click here. Most popular topics on SSDRC.com Social Security Disability in North Carolina Common Mistakes to avoid after being denied for Disability Tips to Prepare for Filing for Social Security Disability or SSI Advice to Win SSD and SSI Benefit Claims Social Security Disability SSI Questions What is the difference between Social Security Disability and SSI? How to get disability for depression Getting disability for fibromyalgia SSI disability for children with ADHD What is the Application Process for Social Security Disability and SSI? Social Security Disability SSI Exam tips More Social Security Disability SSI Questions What makes you eligible for Social Security Disability or SSI? Related pages: Winning and getting disability with a mental condition SSI for an autistic child Appealed my disability denial, what should I expect? Can you receive your SSI disability payment before you get an approval letter? Getting disability for rheumatoid arthritis How to file for disability in Illinois Disability Determination After Seeing a Psychologist at a Mental Evaluation Filing an SSI appeal Social Security Disability advocates Application tip for filing for Social Security Disability or SSI If you get Social Security Disability benefits do you get Medicare or Medicaid? Partial Social Security Disability SSI benefits How to file for disability in Tennessee Vertigo and Filing for Disability The Social Security Disability Approval Process and the Criteria for Decisions